Contactor combines high current rating with low cost for auto apps

Contactor combines high current rating with low cost for auto apps
Harrisburg, Pa. — Capable of carrying 500 amps, the new KILOVAC brand LEV200 contactor from Tyco Electronics targets power switching applications in electric and hybrid electric vehicles, forklifts, trains, generators, welding equipment and a host of other systems.

The LEV200 has 1 Form X (SPST-NO-DM) main contacts, and is rated to continuously carry 500 A at 320 Vdc when using 400 MCM conductors at 65°C. Higher ratings are possible with other conductors. It can interrupt up to 2,000 A at 320 Vdc and the contact voltage ratings range from 12 Vdc up to 900 Vdc. A 1 Form A (SPST-NO) auxiliary contact set rated for 2 A at 30 Vdc or 3A at 125 Vac is available as an option.

Standard coils are available for operation on 12, 24 and 48 Vdc. Models for operation on 96 Vdc and 115 Vac or dc are available as special orders. Coil termination options include strip leads and #10-32 threaded studs.

With a broad contact voltage rating and a lower cost than other comparably-rated contactors, the new LEV200 is suitable for a variety of high-volume applications, said the company. In addition, the hermetically-sealed design makes the device intrinsically safe, and therefore, suitable for use in explosive and harsh environments.

The company noted that although the LEV200 is not position sensitive when it comes to mounting, designers may select an upright mounting or side-mount attachment style. The low overall height of the side-mount LEV200 makes it suitable for applications with tight space requirements.

The KILOVAC LEV200 contactor is priced at $42.05 in quantities of 100. Delivery is typically two to four weeks.

Tyco Electronics, 1-800-522-6752, www.tycoelectronics.com

Editor's note: For more information on automotive electronics, visit Automotive DesignLine.